An Allied Trade Specialist, also known as a 91E (Echo), is a military occupational specialty (MOS) in the United States Army. This role is crucial in maintaining and repairing various equipment and vehicles used by the military. The primary responsibility of an Allied Trade Specialist is to fabricate, repair, and modify both metallic and nonmetallic parts.
One of the key skills required for an Allied Trade Specialist is the ability to operate a wide range of machine shop equipment. This includes lathes, drill presses, grinders, and other tools commonly found in a machine shop. These machines are used to shape and form different materials, allowing the specialist to create or repair parts as needed.
In addition to operating the machinery, an Allied Trade Specialist also supervises the fabrication process. This involves overseeing the work of other personnel and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. Attention to detail and a strong understanding of engineering principles are necessary to successfully complete fabrication tasks.
Repair work is another important aspect of the Allied Trade Specialist's role. The specialist is responsible for diagnosing mechanical issues and finding the most effective solutions. This may involve disassembling and reassembling parts, replacing faulty components, or conducting repairs on damaged equipment. The ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve is essential in this role.
Modification of parts is often required to meet specific needs or to adapt equipment for different purposes. An Allied Trade Specialist utilizes their fabrication skills to modify existing parts or create entirely new ones. This may involve working with different materials, such as metal or composite materials, and using various techniques to achieve the desired outcome.
The work of an Allied Trade Specialist is not limited to a specific type of equipment or vehicle. They may be involved in repairing and modifying a wide range of military assets, including tanks, aircraft, weapons, and communication systems. This requires a broad knowledge base and adaptability to different types of machinery and systems.
Personal experiences as an Allied Trade Specialist can vary greatly depending on the military unit and specific deployment or assignment. Some specialists may find themselves working in a well-equipped workshop with access to state-of-the-art machinery, while others may have to work in more austere conditions with limited resources. The ability to adapt and be resourceful in challenging environments is crucial in these situations.
An Allied Trade Specialist (91E) is a highly skilled individual responsible for fabricating, repairing, and modifying metallic and nonmetallic parts for military equipment and vehicles. They operate a variety of machine shop equipment, supervise fabrication processes, diagnose and repair mechanical issues, and modify parts to meet specific requirements. This role requires strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and adaptability to different types of machinery and systems.